Page 55 - FTL Driver Training Manual

F R E I G H T T R A N S P O R T L T D ( F T L ) D R I V E R T R A I N I N G M A N U A L V E R S I O N 2

14 Gross Vehicle Weights and Overloaded Vehicles
14.1 Gross Vehicle Weights

All vehicles and their drivers in the UK have to abide by the law. These
laws are set out in The Road Traffic Act which covers the use of all
vehicles on roads, all aspects of vehicle use are included and for our
guidance we are issued with the Highway Code, which sets out how we
must behave whilst on a public highway. One area we are governed by
is the issue of weight limits on our roads. They are put in place for
numerous reasons; weak bridges, narrow roads or other environmental
issues.

The definition of a road in England and Wales is ‘any
highway and any other road to which the public has access
and includes bridges over which a road passes’ (RTA 1988
sect 192(1)). In Scotland, there is a similar definition which
is extended to include any way over which the public have
a right of passage (R(S)A 1984 sect 151(1)).

• If there is no additional sign saying, “Except for access”, or
“Except for Loading”, or any other instruction, this means you may
not pass that sign under any circumstances if your vehicle will
exceed the weight shown. The only exception is if you are directed
by a uniformed Police Officer or other authorised person, i.e.
D.V.S.A or Highways Agency Officer.
• The weight shown is the Gross Vehicle Weight. It is irrelevant if
your vehicle is not loaded at the time, you still cannot pass.
The G.V.W/MAM is stated on the Ministry Plate in the cab.
• You are liable, as well as the Operator, to prosecution if you infringe the instruction
set out. You may also bring the Company Operator’s Licence into question with the
Traffic Commissioner.
• Ensure that you plan your journey and if in doubt, speak to your Line Manager for
clarification and further instruction.
• You are likely to face disciplinary action, should you be found to flout any instruction
or guidance as shown in the Highway Code and the Company Training Manual.

You must be aware of the maximum gross weight for the vehicle you are operating. Please
use your on board weigh loader or site weighbridges to establish your weight.

It is your responsibility to be aware of your vehicle’s gross weight and not to exceed it. If
you are in doubt, contact the transport manager before proceeding along the highway.

Page 54 of 113